Description
About this course
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) is the ideal starting point if you want to teach in the adult education and skills sector. It is open to learners of all experience levels, and you study fully online at a pace that fits your life.
You receive thoughtful grading, constructive feedback and genuine support from a tutor who is with you every step of the way.
- The perfect entry qualification for anyone who wants to teach adults. No experience required.
- Fully online and self-paced, with up to 12 months to complete.
- Dedicated tutor support, personalised feedback and free resubmissions until you pass.
- Practical teaching experience through a simple 15-minute micro-teach you can record at home.
- A recognised Level 3 teaching qualification that leads to teaching, assessing and progression to Levels 4 and 5.
All you need to know
Awarding body
Highfield
Qualification number
600/3871/8
Guided learning
Approximately 48 hours of guided study.
Total qualification time
Approximately 120 hours, including research and assessment tasks.
Completion time
As little as 8 weeks, or spread your learning across the full 12-month enrolment period.
Formerly known as
PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector).
How is the course delivered?
The AET is delivered through a flexible, fully online learning model designed to fit around your existing commitments.
Fully online study
Access your learning platform 24/7 from any device. All course materials, lessons and resources are online.
Self-paced learning
Finish in a few weeks, or spread your learning across the full 12-month enrolment period.
Dedicated tutor support
A named tutor gives you one-to-one guidance, feedback on your assignments and help preparing for your assessments.
Practical assignments
Interactive tasks and written assignments build real teaching skills, from lesson planning to creating inclusive learning environments.
Live micro-teach session
Prepare and deliver a 15-minute micro-teach, which you can deliver live online and receive feedback from your tutor.
Step-by-step structure
A clear study plan with step-by-step lessons guides you through each unit, so you never feel lost or overwhelmed.
What you will study
The AET is a nationally recognised qualification that prepares you to teach adults in colleges, private training centres, workplace learning, apprenticeships and community education. It is made up of three units:
Unit 1
H/505/0053
Understanding Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training
Explore the key duties of a teacher, legal responsibilities and boundaries, and how to build effective working relationships with learners and other professionals.
Unit 2
D/505/0052
Understanding and Using Inclusive Learning and Teaching Approaches in Education and Training
Learn how adults learn, how to plan and deliver engaging sessions, and how to create an inclusive environment that meets the needs of all learners.
Unit 3
R/505/0050
Understanding Assessment in Education and Training
Gain the skills to assess learners fairly, give constructive feedback and understand the different assessment methods used in education and training.
Assessment
The course is assessed through written assignments and a practical micro-teach session. Your tutor supports you through each stage and marks your work through our online learning system.
- Units 1 and 2: a workbook of short-answer questions for each unit.
- Unit 3: a set of short-answer questions.
Micro-teach session
You plan and deliver a 15-minute lesson based on what you have studied in Units 1, 2 and 3.
- Deliver the session to at least one learner.
- Use a real classroom or a simulated setting, such as your home, your workplace or a live online meeting.
- Record the session on a smartphone, tablet or camera and submit it through your online portal.
- Your tutor gives constructive feedback to help you refine your skills and build your confidence.
You do not need to attend a training centre. The micro-teach is assessed completely online.
Where you can teach
- Colleges
- Private training centres
- Workplace learning
- Apprenticeships
- Community education
Entry requirements
- There are no specific entry requirements.
- A good standard of English is recommended.
- No prior teaching or assessing experience is needed.
- You need access to at least one learner for your micro-teach.
Take a pre-assessment
Not sure the AET is right for you? Complete our short pre-assessment questionnaire. It helps us check your background and your access to a learner for the micro-teach, and confirm the course is the right fit for you.
Your learning journey
From enrolment to certification in as little as 8 weeks.
Enrolment and access
You get immediate access to our online learning portal as soon as you enrol, so you can start exploring the course materials.
Induction and orientation
Meet your dedicated tutor, get familiar with the course structure and understand the assessment requirements. We guide you through the platform.
Core learning modules
Work through bite-sized learning modules at your own pace, building your knowledge and confidence step by step.
Practical application
Apply your learning to real-world scenarios through case studies, interactive activities and practical exercises.
Assessment and feedback
Submit your assessments for review. Your tutor gives constructive feedback to help you refine your skills and knowledge.
Certification
On successful completion, you receive your official AET certificate and can take the next step in your career.
Progression route
Many learners use the AET as their gateway into teaching. After completing it, you can progress to:
- Certificate in Education and Training (CET)
- Diploma in Education and Training (DET)
- Specialist teaching and assessing qualifications
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for this course?
Most learners only need a good standard of English and a willingness to take part in practical and written activities. No prior teaching or assessing experience is required.
How is the course delivered?
Training is delivered through flexible online learning with tutor support, so you can study at your own pace while completing the practical elements.
How long does the course take to complete?
Completion time depends on your schedule, but most learners finish within 4 to 12 weeks.
Do I need to be employed to enrol?
You do not need to be employed, but you must have access to a suitable environment to complete the practical assessment.
Is the qualification recognised?
Yes. The qualification is accredited and recognised across the UK, meeting industry and regulatory standards.
What support will I receive during the course?
You have dedicated tutor support, online learning materials and guidance throughout your studies.
Can I study from anywhere?
Yes. All learning materials are online, so you can study from home or work at a time that suits you.
What can I do after completing this course?
You can progress to higher-level teaching, assessing or specialist qualifications, depending on your chosen pathway.
Not sure if this course is right for you? Call our admissions team on 0208 049 7448 and we will help you choose.
